As American As...Apple Pie Sandwiches

I

had the opportunity to prepare the Apple Pie Sandwiches that was previously mentioned on my blog, and they were fabulous! I ended up making two batches because I made the first batch with tart, Granny Smith apples and my kids did not care for the flavor. I then made a batch with the Roma variety of apples and the kids really enjoyed those. If these are being made primarily for a more mature palette, the Granny Smith apples are the best choice and choose a smoother tasting, less tart apple if your making them for kids (Roma, MacIntosh, Red Delicious, Fuji).

I was surprised to find that these did taste just like apple pie! After these sandwiches are fried like a grilled cheese sandwich they are sweet and full of apple goodness. They are wonderful as a dessert or as a breakfast dish served with powdered sugar and syrup. The next time I make these, I'm going to try inserting a piece of cheddar cheese between the bread and experiment with the apple pie and cheddar cheese taste combination. I bet that would be delicious also.


Apple Pie Sandwiches

2 C diced, peeled tart apples (Granny Smith for the more mature palatte, try Red Delicious for kids)
1 C water
1/2 C plus 1 TBSP sugar, divided
5 tsp cornstarch
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
1/4 tsp nutmeg
2 tsp lemon juice
12 slices day-old bread
3 eggs
2/3 C milk
2 tsp vanilla extract

confectioners' sugar (optional)

In a large saucepan, cook apples and water over medium heat for 10 minutes or until apples are tender. Combine 1/2 cup sugar, cornstarch, cinnamon, and nutmeg; stir into apple mixture. Bring to a boil and cook and stir for 2 minutes or until thickened. Remove from the heat; stir in lemon juice.


Spread six slices of bread with 1/3 C filling each; top with remaining bread.

In a shallow bowl, beat the eggs, milk, vanilla and remaining sugar. Dip sandwiches in egg mixture.


Cook on a lightly greased hot griddle until golden brown on both sides.


Sprinkle with the confectioners' sugar if desired.

6 servings